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Definition Mnemonics are techniques or tools used to aid memory by associating difficult-to-remember information with something more familiar, relatable, or vivid. These methods help individuals encode and retrieve information more effectively by creating ment...

Definition Monotheism is the belief in the existence of one supreme being or deity who is considered all-powerful, all-knowing, and the creator of the universe. Unlike polytheistic religions, which worship multiple gods, monotheism emphasizes a singular divine...

Definition Mood, in psychology, refers to a relatively enduring emotional state that influences how a person feels and perceives the world around them. Unlike emotions, which are typically short-lived and triggered by specific events, moods can last for minute...

Definition Mood disorders are a category of mental health conditions that involve persistent and significant disturbances in a person’s emotional state. These disturbances profoundly impact how a person feels, thinks, behaves, and functions in daily life – aff...

Definition Mores are the deeply held customs, behaviors, and beliefs of a society or culture that are considered morally right or wrong by its members. Unlike fokways, which may be flexible or casual, mores are often viewed as essential to maintaining social o...

Definition Melatonin is a hormone produced by the pineal gland in the brain. It plays a key role in regulating sleep-wake cycles, helping you feel drowsy at night and awake during the day. The production of melatonin increases when it gets dark and decreases w...

Definition Modeling, within the context of social learning theory, refers to the process through which individuals learn new behaviors, attitudes, or skills by observing and imitating others. This "modeling" typically occurs in a social context where someone (...

Definition Monogamy refers to a type of relationship where two people are exclusively involved with each other emotionally, romantically, or sexually. In most contexts, monogamy is associated with romantic relationships, though it can also apply to friendships...

Definition Motivation is the driving force that compels individuals to act or behave in a certain way, often influenced by internal desires, external factors, or a combination of both. It involves the reasons behind why people engage in specific activities, pe...

Definition Motivational interviewing is a goal-oriented counseling approach that helps individuals explore and resolve ambivalence about changing their behavior. It is a collaborative process where the interviewer works with the client to identify and strength...

Definition The motor cortex is a region of the brain located in the frontal lobe that plays a crucial role in controlling voluntary muscle movements. It is responsible for planning, initiating, and executing intentional actions, such as walking, talking, or re...

Definition The Multiple Intelligences Theory is a framework proposed by psychologist Howard Gardner in 1983. It suggests that intelligence is not a single, general ability but consists of multiple distinct types of cognitive competencies. Gardner identified ei...

Definition Negative punishment in operant conditioning refers to a behavior modification technique where a favorable stimulus or privilege is removed following an undesired action, with the goal of reducing the occurrence of that behavior. Example A student fr...

Definition Negative reinforcement is a concept in operant conditioning where a behavior is strengthened by the removal of an unpleasant or aversive stimulus. In simpler terms, when someone does something that results in the removal of something uncomfortable o...

Neurodevelopmental Disorders Neurodevelopmental disorders are conditions that originate in the development of the brain. These disorders affect how the brain grows and functions, impacting cognitive, learning, emotional, social, and behavioral development. The...

Definition A neuron is a specialized cell in the nervous system that transmits information through electrical and chemical signals. Neurons are often called "the building blocks of the brain" because they form networks that allow us to process thoughts, memori...

Definition Plasticity, also known as neuroplasticity, refers to the ability of the human nervous system to adapt and change in response to experiences, learning, or injury. It involves the modification of neural pathways and connections within the brain, allow...

Definition A neurotransmitter is a chemical messenger in the brain that allows neurons (specialized cells) to communicate with each other by crossing the tiny gap between them called a synapse. These chemicals play a crucial role in transmitting signals that r...

Definition A neutral stimulus is a stimulus that does not naturally elicit a specific response from an organism. In psychology, particularly in classical conditioning, a neutral stimulus is initially irrelevant or inconsequential until it becomes associated wi...

Definition Nociception is the process by which the body detects potentially harmful stimuli, such as intense heat, sharp objects, or chemical irritants, and sends signals to the brain. These signals are transmitted by specialized nerve cells called nociceptors...